ARTICLE
The Naples Players is announcing today the formation of a new advisory council comprised of healthcare professionals, industry professionals, and community leaders to help the organization make informed decisions about the safest and most responsible way to move forward. The advisory council will also guide the organization in the best ways to serve the community during the current and upcoming conditions. Already boasting a robust COVID-19 response, The Naples Players has engaged more than 7500 people through their local “Aid for the Arts Concert Series,” and has launched more than 20 virtual education programs to serve the community, with more than 380 students regularly involved in the ongoing classes. The theatre has also been building masks in the costume shop for NCH and Harry Chapin Food Bank; is finishing constructing custom designed intubation boxes for NCH in the scene shop; and connecting with local partners (Alzheimer's Support Network, STARAbility Foundation, Gulf Coast High School, Marco Island Academy, Naples High School, and Avow Kids) to deliver virtual programming to those who would not traditionally have access. “We’ve already seen that our programs are making a big impact during these difficult times,” said CEO/Executive Artistic Director Bryce Alexander, “but we want to make sure our programs continue to evolve beyond the virus to support our community in the best ways possible. We want to get back to performing but we want to make sure our audiences can stay healthy when we do.” The Naples Players COVID-19 Advisory Council is comprised of seven individuals. • Senator Kathleen Passidomo - Florida State Senate District 28 • Charles Chapman - City Manager, City of Naples • Chief Stephanie Spell - Collier County Sheriff's Office • Chief Tabatha Butcher - Collier County EMS • Patty Baker - Broadway Producer; Philanthropist • Peter Swinburn - Chair of the Wales Millennium Centre; former President & CEO, Molson Coors Beverage co. • Rich Jaffe - Co-CEO, Broadway Across America With meetings beginning next week, the theatre intends to use this committee’s guidance to finalize decisions about its upcoming summer shows, summer education programs, and beyond. “We're grateful that each of these individuals has agreed to bring their own unique perspective to help us make informed and prudent decisions about these programs, and about the future of The Naples Players” continued Alexander. “These are some of the leading minds in the industry, in our government, and in our families. We want to demonstrate to other organizations the power and knowledge that comes from bringing your community together.”